Not every household snafu requires a professional. In fact, with a little elbow grease and some know-how, you can fix common breakdowns before they turn into expensive disasters

A Leaky Washing Machine

A Leaky Washing Machine

If you ignore it: You could end up with a flood in the laundry room.

Easy fix: Check the water hoses connected to the back of the machine — the leak is most likely coming from a small crack in the rubber. If so, you'll need to replace the faulty hose immediately, before a major break occurs. Turn off the water supply (so you won't come home to a flood) and buy a new hose at a hardware store. To install it, unscrew and remove the old hose, then screw the new one in and tighten it with a wrench.

Mold Spots on the Walls

Mold Spots on the Walls

If you ignore them: You could develop allergies and other health problems.

Easy fix: Remove the fungi with a mixture of 1 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of warm water. Scrub the area thoroughly, then rinse with clean water. When the spot is dry, repaint. (If the problem is widespread, consult an expert.)

Pro tip: Consider using a mildew-resistant latex paint to help prevent further growth, says Erik Neighbour, owner of EC Handyman in Sacramento, California.